Two Brothers From British Army Cross Paths in Afghanistan

In an unprecedented incident, two brothers who serve in the British Army crossed paths in Afghanistan.

Lance Corporal Lee Gorbutt, of 35 Royal Engineers was on board for his third operational tour, while younger brother Lance Corporal Shane Gorbutt had completed his first.

The two brothers met when Shane was leaving Helmand Province after spending the summer with his regiment 9/12th Lancers, partnering the Afghan National Army on operations. Lee is associated with the Royal Engineer Talisman group, which clears routes.

"My main job is as a welder, but for this tour I will be working as a member of the Talisman route proving and clearing team. It trains you to be nosy which I enjoy. I have found it really interesting so far, and I'm really excited about the tour ahead," Lee said in a statement.

Interestingly, Lee earlier served with his older brother Terry for two years in the 22 Engineer Regiment, however, they never got a chance to meet each other up.

"I served with Terry and did not even go on exercise with him, so it was a bit of a laugh to end up in Afghanistan with Shane. It was definitely a surprise when we found out we were going to be here at the same time," Lee said.